Is It Healthy to Fast for 3 Days?

No, it is not. While the practice is considered to be relatively safe and has some health benefits, almost all of these benefits can be achieved by fasting for just 12 hours a day (or 24 hours at most).

Do People Have Stomach Pain When Fasting for 3 Days?

Yes, they often do. If you experience abdominal pain during a fast, this means you should stop immediately. Some other symptoms that tell you to suddenly end your fast include dizziness, nausea, loss of consciousness, vomiting, chest pain, and diarrhea ( 10 ).

What Happens After 3 Days of Fasting?

After three days of not eating, you will most likely be very hungry, dizzy, weak, fatigued, and experiencing muscle aches and a headache.

How Many Days Is It OK to Fast?

It is advisable to go no longer than 24 hours without food.

Blog Editorial team Ellen Landes, RDN, MS, ACSM-CPT

Ellen Landes, RDN, MS, ACSM-CPT

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, M.S. Nutrition, ACSM-CPT

Career Highlights

13 years in nutrition
9 years in fitness
University-level academic instructor of Human Nutrition
Owner of The Runner\’s Dietitian, a virtual practice working with runners and other active individuals on leveraging their nutrition for health and performance
Experienced health and fitness writer and medical reviewer

Education

B.S. Nutrition and Dietetics, University of Wisconsin-Madison
M.S. Nutrition, Boston University
Registered Dietitian/Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RD/RDN)
ACSM Certified Personal Trainer

About me

I am Ellen Landes, MS, RDN, owner of The Runner\’s Dietitian. I specialize in helping runners optimize their performance and overall well-being through a realistic approach to nutrition. A comprehensive understanding of both exercise science and dietary principles is essential to my practice.  I also serve as a nutrition instructor at a local university, where I educate and inspire future professionals in the healthcare field.

Fun Facts

I am an avid runner and also enjoy practicing yoga and finding new and fun ways to get movement in. I also love to sit down with a good book, indulge in addictive reality TV, and soak up as much time as possible with my husband and kids.